Washington: The US State Department has issued a global travel advisory for American citizens amid escalating military tensions in West Asia, urging those currently in the region or planning to travel there to reconsider their plans.
According to the advisory, the ongoing conflict involving Iran could escalate rapidly, with the security situation potentially deteriorating without warning.
The US State Department warned that Iran and groups backed by it could target American interests, businesses and diplomatic facilities overseas. It also cautioned that airspace closures, flight cancellations and major travel disruptions could occur as the situation develops.
American citizens in the region have been advised to remain highly alert and prepare for possible emergencies.
The advisory comes amid an increase in missile and drone attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels towards Saudi Arabia. On Saturday, a loud explosion was heard in the Saudi capital Riyadh, while a plume of black smoke was reportedly seen in the sky near the airport.
Saudi authorities claimed that a ballistic missile launched towards Riyadh was intercepted and destroyed in the air. Meanwhile, Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree claimed that the group had targeted sensitive locations in Riyadh and an Aramco oil refinery in Yanbu using cruise missiles, ballistic missiles and drones.
Saudi Arabia: Level 3
The US has retained its Level 3 — Reconsider Travel advisory for Saudi Arabia. US government employees are barred from travelling within 20 miles of the Yemen border.
The State Department also warned that debris from intercepted missiles could pose a threat to people and property.
Yemen: Level 4
For Yemen, the US has maintained its highest-level Level 4 — Do Not Travel advisory. The warning cites risks including terrorism, armed conflict, kidnapping and civil unrest.
Israel: Level 3
Israel remains under a Level 3 travel advisory. The US State Department said Iran-backed groups could seek to target American institutions and interests beyond the Middle East as tensions continue to develop.
